Hike the Bumpass Hell Trail this Fall in California
Hiking to Bumpass Hell Trail in Lassen Volcanic National Park is a unique and exhilarating experience. It provides a firsthand look at an active hydrothermal area featuring bubbling mud pots, vibrant fumaroles, and steaming hot springs. This trail is one of the park’s most famous and scenic routes, showcasing a landscape unlike any other in California, and will be one of the most unforgettable hikes!
The Bumpass Hell Trail is approximately three miles round trip and presents a moderately challenging route that includes some elevation gain, leading to a rewarding descent into the hydrothermal basin. The trail begins at the Bumpass Hell parking lot along the main park road. Depending on how much time you spend exploring the basin, the hike typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete. Although the trail is generally well-maintained, some sections can be steep, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
For those heading to Lassen Volcanic National Park, the St. Bernard Lodge is one of the best places to stay if you prefer a warm, cozy bed at night. After you’ve spent the day hiking the Bumpass Hell Trail, it’s a relief to know you’ll have a hot meal and a comfortable night’s sleep awaiting you. Our rustic lodge is located on ten gorgeous acres just outside the small town of Chester, where you’ll find plenty to discover. We can’t wait to host you; book your lodging near one of the best California State Parks.
Bumpass Hell Trail & More Hikes at Lassen Volcanic National Park
For those who have yet to experience the Bumpass Hell Trail, it’s a visual treat from the start. The three-mile route passes through a forested area and then opens up to striking views of Lassen Peak and other volcanic terrain. It’s one of the most memorable stops in all of the Northern California State Parks!
As you approach Bumpass Hell, the smell of sulfur fills the air, indicating you’re nearing the hydrothermal area. The basin itself features a wooden boardwalk, allowing hikers to explore the geothermal features up close safely. Visitors will encounter boiling springs, colorful mineral deposits, and steaming fumaroles, providing an otherworldly experience.
After you’ve experienced Bumpass Hill, there are a few other day hikes not to miss:
- Mill Creek Falls: Head to the park’s tallest waterfall cascading 75 feet into a rocky gorge on a scenic 3.2-mile round-trip hike. This moderate trail passes through wildflower-filled meadows and shady forests, offering views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
- Kings Creek Falls: This picturesque hike leads to a stunning 30-foot waterfall. This approximately 3-mile round-trip trail takes hikers through lush meadows and scenic forested areas, with the option to descend a steep stone staircase along the creek for closer waterfall views.
- Brokeoff Mountain: For a strenuous 7.4-mile round-trip hike, you’ll begin at the Brokeoff Mountain parking lot near the southwest entrance of the park. Hikers should anticipate approximately six hours to complete the journey, which involves an elevation gain from 6,635 feet to 9,235 feet
The Best Place to Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park
St. Bernard Lodge, a charming mountain B&B near Lassen Volcanic National Park, offers cozy and rustic accommodations that embody a classic lodge feel. Each guest room is thoughtfully decorated to reflect a blend of old-fashioned charm and homey comfort, ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing retreat after a day of adventure. The rooms are individually decorated with quaint, traditional furnishings, and many feature wood paneling, giving guests an authentic mountain lodge experience.
The lodge’s on-site restaurant is a beloved spot known for its hearty, home-cooked meals; the restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, featuring comfort food classics and locally inspired dishes that keep guests coming back for more. The meals are freshly prepared, and the warm, inviting dining room is the perfect setting to savor your meal and share stories of your day’s adventures. With a cozy bar area offering a variety of drinks, the restaurant provides a relaxed atmosphere where guests can unwind with a beverage after a long day exploring Lassen’s trails.
Tucked away in the forested landscape between Lake Almanor and Lassen Volcanic National Park, our lodging near the park is ideal for exploring the park’s geothermal features, pristine lakes, and scenic hiking trails. The lodge is close enough to enjoy a day trip into the park but far enough from the main road to offer a peaceful, secluded experience. Join us in Northern California this year! Book your room today.
